Newcastle and Southampton would surely not want to pay £20m for Gudmundsson

According to reports in The Sun, Newcastle United and Southampton are among the Premier League clubs targeting a move for £20m-rated Burnley attacker Johann Berg Gudmundsson.

What’s the word, then?

Well, The Sun says that the Magpies, Saints and top flight rivals Leicester City are all targeting a move for the Iceland international following an impressive campaign for Burnley, who lie seventh in the standings.

The Sun says that Toon boss Rafa Benitez is a big fan of the former Charlton winger, while their south coast Premier League rivals – whom they beat 3-0 at St James’ Park on Saturday to boost their survival bid – are also long-term admirers of the 27-year-old.

The report adds that while Gudmundsson only has one year left on his contract at Turf Moor, the Lancashire outfit are able to trigger an extension by a further 12 months.

How good has Gudmundsson been this season?

The winger, who primarily plays on the right but is able to play on the opposite flank too, has scored two goals and provided a further six assists in 29 top flight appearances so far this term, helping Sean Dyche’s men to be just five points adrift of Arsenal.

According to WhoScored.com, the 63-cap Iceland international has made 49 key passes in those 29 Premier League outings during the current campaign, while he has successfully completed 30 of the 57 dribbles he has attempted.

Would he be a good signing for Newcastle or Southampton?

He certainly could be, yes.

The 27-year-old has shown the quality he can bring from wide areas and that is something that Saints need help with especially after another disappointing campaign in terms of creativity and goals.

Benitez also likes to play with wingers and would feel that Gudmundsson would provide some competition for Matt Ritchie, who came under criticism from some of his own fans earlier this year, on the right, but it remains to be seen whether either club is willing to spend £20m on him, even if they both secure their Premier League status for at least another year.